Snow creates difficult driving conditions

Friday

Feb 22, 2013 at 1:02 PMFeb 22, 2013 at 1:18 PM

The Minnesota Department of Transportation advises motorists to slow down and give plows room to work in south central Minnesota. Light snow blowing off plows and other vehicles on the road is causing reduced visibility.

MANKATO, Minn.— (9:30 a.m.) The Minnesota Department of Transportation advises motorists to slow down and give plows room to work in south central Minnesota. Light snow blowing off plows and other vehicles on the road is causing reduced visibility.

Officials do not anticipate any interstate or highway closures at this time; however, motorists may encounter brief lane and road closures where crashes occur.

MnDOT snow plow operators are doing their part to make highways safe. Motorists should remember to:

Check road conditions at www.511mn.org or call 511; it takes time to get roads back to good driving conditions.Be patient and remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions for your trip.Stay back at least five car lengths behind the plow, far from the snow cloud. Snowplow operators will pull over when it is safe to do so to allow traffic build-up to pass.Stay alert for snowplows that turn or exit frequently and often with little warning. They may also travel over centerlines or partially in traffic to further improve road conditions.Slow down to a safe speed for current conditions. Snowplows typically move at slower speeds.

For additional tips on safe winter driving, go to www.mndot.gov/workzone.